This week in MIL Football

The Division I first-round title goes to the winner. Baldwin celebrates homecoming during this game. The Bears are coming off their first win of the season, while the Sabers had a bye last week.

Sabers at a glance

Naia Nakamoto has recorded two 100-yard rushing games to account for 48.4 percent of Maui High’s total offense in two league games. Quarterbacks Brex Delray and Taelen Bates have both been effective.

Bears at a glance

Baldwin is led by sophomore quarterback Laa Asuega-Stark, who passed for four touchdowns and 178 yards — while running for 53 yards and another score — in a win over King Kekaulike last week.

Quotable

“It’s been difficult, to be honest. Monday was just a real interesting day for us. We struggled with some focus issues, with some energy and effort issues. … We’re just excited to get back on the football field, to be together as brothers.”

— James Kammerer, Maui High head coach on the time off this week — five practice days and one game have been postponed for the Sabers

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Kamehameha Maui at King Kekaulike

Saturday, King Kekaulike Stadium, 7 p.m.

Overview

The Upcountry rivalry game matches two teams that both appear to be getting better. King Kekaulike has not won a game in four years, but Na Alii trailed just 23-22 with 17 seconds left in the first half last week. Kamehameha Maui beat Baldwin and played state-ranked Lahainaluna tougher than any team this season.

Na Alii at a glance

King Kekaulike celebrates homecoming in this game. Trey Hunter has scored eight of the 11 touchdowns Na Alii have scored this season — last year, they reached the end zone just five times.

Warriors at a glance

Although the offense struggled, Kamehameha Maui’s defense limited the Lunas to just 14 points and 68 yards passing. In their win over Baldwin, Dane Abarra ran for 121 yards and Tiliti Adams passed for 303.

Quotable

“We’re getting better and that’s all we concern ourselves with. We’ve got some good kids. You know, it’s taken us awhile, but we’re moving in the right direction.”